El Calafate - Practical Information

Currency

Argentine Peso

Language

Spanish

Timezone

UTC/GMT -4

Weights & Measures

Metric; Rural areas may use the legua (league, about 5km)

Visas

Nationals of the USA, Canada, most Western European countries, Australia and New Zealand do not need visas to visit Argentina. upon arrival all non-visa visitors must obtain a free tourist card, good for 90 days and renewable for 90 more.

Dependent children traveling without both parents theoretically need a notarized document certifying that both parents agree to the child’s travel. Parents may also wish to bring a copy of the custody form.

Customs

Argentine officials are courteous toward tourists. Electronic items, including laptops, cameras and cell (mobile) phones, can be brought into the country duty free, provided they are not intended for resale. If you’re over 18 you may also bring in up to 2L of alcohol, 400 cigarettes and 50 cigars. If you’re entering with expensive computer, photographic and/or other electronic equipment, you should play it safe and declare it.

Business Hour

Traditionally, business hours in Argentina start at 8am and break at midday siesta (rest) for three or even four hours, during which people return home for lunch and a brief nap. After siesta, shops reopen until 8pm or 9pm. This schedule is still common in the provinces, but government offices and many businesses in Buenos Aires have adopted a more conventional 8am to 5pm schedule.

Electricity overview

European plug with two circular metal pins

Australian-style plug with two flat angled blades and one vertical grounding blade